Tag Archives: Other places to visit

The dolmens of Antequera

July 23, 2024 Clive Muir Leave a comment

The dolmens of Antequera are a group of three megalithic structures located near the town of Antequera in the province of Malaga, Spain. The dolmens, which date back to the Neolithic period, were constructed between 3000 and 2500 BC and were used for burial purposes.

The three dolmens are known as the Menga Dolmen, the Viera Dolmen, and the El Romeral Dolmen. The Menga Dolmen is the largest of the three, measuring 27 meters in length and consisting of 32 upright stones supporting a massive capstone weighing over 180 tons. The Viera Dolmen is slightly smaller, but still impressive, measuring 21 meters in length and featuring a similar arrangement of upright stones and a large capstone. The El Romeral Dolmen is smaller still, but notable for its intricate carvings and decorations.

The dolmens of Antequera are considered to be some of the finest examples of megalithic architecture in Europe and were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. They are an important archaeological site and offer valuable insights into the social and cultural practices of the people who built them over 4,000 years ago.

There is a great in depth article well worth a read over at the Ronda Today website about the dolmens of Antequera: https://www.rondatoday.com/antequeras-dolmen-structures/

Opening times of the Dolmens of Antequera

From January 1 to March 31: Open Tuesday to Saturday from 09:00 to 18:00; Sundays and holidays from 09:00 to 15:00. Mondays closed.
From April 1 to June 15: Open Tuesday to Saturday from 09:00 to 21:00; Sundays and holidays from 09:00 to 15:00. Mondays closed.
From June 16 to September 15: Open from Tuesday to Saturday from 09:00 to 15:00 and evening visits from 20:00 to 22:00.

Please double check opening times here: https://www.museosdeandalucia.es/web/conjuntoarqueologicodolmenesdeantequera/informacion-general

Guided tours to the Dolmens of Antequera

Get Your Guide have a great sellection of guided tours from various towns and cities to the dolmens of Antequera and other attractions close to the Caminito del Rey.

Ronda Today

Everything you need to know before you visit Ronda “The city of dreams” in Andalucia. https://www.rondatoday.com/

Visit Cádiz

Planning on visiting Cádiz? Tourist information. Monuments. Hotels. Activities. City guides: https://visitingcadiz.com/

The Caminito del Rey

Find tickets for the Caminito del Rey: https://www.caminodelrey.es/

Wildside Holidays – Spain

Take a trip on the Wildside! Discover the wildlife and nature of Spain, its Natural and National Parks and find the top wildlife, activity and walking holiday companies.

Iberia Nature Forum

Struggling with identifying those bugs and beasties? Why not check out the Iberia nature Forum! https://iberianatureforum.com/

Clive Muir

I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain.

www.caminodelrey.es/

Caminito del Rey, Camino del Rey, Visitor Centres

Exploring the Thrilling Caminito del Rey: A Journey Through Nature, History, and Adrenaline

July 3, 2024 Clive Muir Leave a comment

Exploring the Thrilling Caminito del Rey. Embark on a thrilling adventure in the heart of Malaga with the Caminito del Rey. This seven-kilometer trail, once deemed the world’s most dangerous, has been revitalized, offering a safe passage through breathtaking landscapes and a touch of history. Let’s delve into the wonder that is the Caminito del Rey.

Get guided tour tickets for the Caminito del Rey here.

Step by step instructions on how to get tickets for the Caminito del Rey here.

Where the Caminito del Rey is Located

Situated in the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a canyon carved by the Guadalhorce River, this extraordinary path spans Álora, Antequera, and Ardales. A narrow gorge, only ten meters wide in some sections, plummets to depths of 700 meters. Originally a pastoral route, the area transformed with the advent of industrialization in the mid-19th century, leading to the creation of a railway line connecting Córdoba’s mining basins and Malaga’s factories. Getting to the Caminito del Rey here.

Getting to El Chorro reservoirs and Camino del Rey — The Caminito del Rey is under an hours drive from Malaga.

The path’s moniker changed to Caminito del Rey after King Alfonso XIII’s visit in 1921. Two parking options exist: starting in El Chorro and taking a shuttle to the Conde de Gudalhorce reservoir, or parking at the reservoir and shuttling back from El Chorro. Tickets, available on the official website, offer general or guided tour options.

A Tour Through a Changing Landscape

Venture into the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes Natural Area, a protected haven for diverse flora and fauna. Winding through gorges, canyons, valleys, and swamps, the trail spans three kilometers, providing a challenging yet captivating journey. The linear route showcases the Gaitanejo Gorge, Tajo de las Palomas canyon, the Hoyo Valley, and the Gaitanes Gorge, revealing a dynamic landscape.

The view from the mirador close to the Guadalhorce reservoir

Much More Than Nature and Height

Beyond its dizzying heights, the Caminito del Rey boasts historical landmarks. The Gaitanejo Hydroelectric Power Plant, Sierra Parda cave houses, and remnants of the old power lines add layers to the experience. Commemorative plaques and preserved fossils along the walkways recount the path’s history, while the Valle del Hoyo unveils medieval Islamic and Castilian ceramics, hinting at a 13th-century settlement.

A mix of history, nature and adrenaline, it is a perfect plan to enjoy the interior of Malaga! — Exploring the Thrilling Caminito del Rey: A Journey Through Nature, History, and Adrenaline

Alternative Ways to Walk the Caminito del Rey

In the Gaitanes Gorge section, an alternative route, less traversed but equally enchanting, offers a tunnel that bypasses the walkway. Virtual visits are available for those with mobility issues or vertigo.

A Great Diversity of Fauna and Flora

Designated a Special Protection Area for Birds, the Guadalhorce River surroundings harbor griffon vultures, golden eagles, and a myriad of other species. The area’s flora, adapting to rocky habitats, includes oleanders, reeds, and fruit trees, contributing to a rich ecosystem.

A New Visitor Reception Center for Caminito del Rey

Caminito del Rey visitor centre — The visitor reception area also has a large car park and regular shuttle buses to the start point of the Caminito del Rey.

The Visitor Reception Center designed by Luis Machuca promises to enhance the Caminito del Rey experience. Serving as a parking lot, viewpoint, and hiker welcome center, it will offer guidance, a cafeteria, and insights into the area’s history, geology, and archaeology. Read more about the visitor centre and parking options at the caminito del rey here.

Candidate for World Heritage

The Caminito del Rey and its surroundings are potential UNESCO World Heritage sites, encompassing natural wonders and historical landmarks within a 20 km radius.

How to Walk the Trail Respectfully

Certain restrictions apply, ensuring a safe and respectful experience. Safety gear is provided, and guidelines include appropriate attire, no consumption of food on walkways, and restrictions on selfie sticks and drones. The venue is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with exceptions on specific dates. Check out the rules and regulations here.

Embark on this extraordinary journey through the Caminito del Rey, where nature, history, and adrenaline converge in a unique and unforgettable experience.